Want to make more money? Then hit the gym!

Two very interesting studies came out this week, all about work and health.

The first study seems to prove that your job might be making you fat. Apparently, unless your job involves manual labor, you are likely to gain weight. But, let's be honest, who hasn't heard some version of this? I can't tell you how many times I've read that work-time snacking is a major problem.

The other study, however, is much more fascinating.

The new study found that people who regularly work out actually make nine percent more money than those who don't have regular gym time. That, to me, is shocking…and a little disappointing, considering that I'm just not the most motivated person when it comes to exercise.

I don't know how much of that I believe but the study, published in the June issue of the Journal of Labor Research, seems to imply that "gym-goers are more disciplined than their slothful co-workers, they might earn higher pay simply because they're better workers, not because they exercise."

It's definitely an interesting comparison. The study's findings, though, seemed a bit shaky on whether or not this is actually true--but I can see where they were trying to go. It's also indisputable that going to the gym does bring some financial rewards, "like lower health care costs and the ability to remain productive into old age."

To be honest, as much as I'd like a pay increase (who wouldn't?!), I don't know that it's enough to motivate me to go work out--especially since the reason I don't work out frequently is that I am busy after work with friends and family. When I think about it, does this study take into account men versus women? Or single workers versus parents? It doesn't seem like it. I'm definitely interested in hearing more about whether going to the gym regularly and a higher salary have similarities--but for now, I'll stick to fitting in 20 minutes of exercise throughout the day, which just seems a lot more manageable for busy people, doesn't it?

Does this make you want to exercise more? Share with us in the comments below!